The Democratic candidate for Lexington County’s State House District 85 seat is helping to organize the Pawlenciaga v. 2.026 charity fashion and dog show presented by animal rescue group LARRY and the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Columbia.

Pawlenciaga v. 2.026 is planned from 1-5 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 10, at the UUCC located at 2701 Heyward St., Columbia. Organizers have set a rain date of Saturday, Oct. 17.

“This hybrid fashion and dog show event is designed to promote the local fashion industry while also encouraging the adoption of shelter dogs and the support of local shelters,” a news release says. “The event promises to be fun, artistic and heartwarming.”

Steven J. Asbill Jr., a Democrat running against state Rep. Jay Kilmartin, R-Lexington, in District 85, told the Chronicle he’s lending a hand with the event because animal welfare is a key plank in his campaign platform. Asbill stressed that the event is nonpartisan. 

“We’re excited to host the second annual Pawlenciaga Fashion-&-Dog Show and provide a platform for people of all ages to support local fashion and animal shelters,” LARRY founder and President Blake Carlton said in the release. “This event is a great opportunity to bring together two very different aspects of our society and culture, but in a way that makes perfect sense — walking the runway to show off and draw attention to worthy causes.”

LARRY stands for Larry (Carlton) Animal Rescue, Rehabilitation and You. The name honors Blake Carlton’s late uncle, Larry Carlton, an avid animal lover who died in 2015.

The news release describes Pawlenciaga as “a fun event where local models wear designs from local designers while walking dogs from local animal shelters down the runway.”

“The event will cater to people of all ages, genders and races who are looking to have fun and to support both the local fashion industry as well as local animal rescues and shelters,” organizers explain in the release. “Attendees will enjoy music, unique fashion, food and beverage and interaction with dogs. Notable guests include local models, designers and animal shelters, as well as UUCC's minister, the Rev. Stephen Robinson, who will bless the animals.”

All animal lovers and pet parents are welcome, but organizers note that only dogs showcased by the shelters will be permitted — no personal pets.

Pawlenciaga’s proceeds will benefit participating animal shelters and the church.

Attendees can register for Pawlenciaga v2.026 at the shortened link https://shorturl.at/DRnUz. Tickets are $25 each, and early registration is encouraged as space is limited. Tickets will be sold at the door if space is available.

For more information about the event, visit LARRYAnimalRescue.org or contact Blake Carlton at blake.carlton@gmail.com or 803-497-7540.